London, Nov 19(ANI): Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA ) President Sepp Blatter has apologized for his earlier remark that racism in football can be resolved through a handshake, but refused to resign, and insisted that he is committed to reforming the organization.
"I am sorry and I regret that my statements earlier this week have resulted in an unfortunate situation. I am committed to the fight against racism and I will not stop until I have stamped out racism in football," The Telegraph quoted him, as saying.
""I cannot resign. Why should I? When you are faced with a problem you have to solve the problem. To leave the organisation this would be totally unfair and is not compatible with my fighting spirit, my character, my energy and my personal commitment to football," he added.
His apology came after South African leader Tokyo Sexwale, who was imprisoned alongside former President Nelson Mandela during the apartheid era, came out in support of Blatter.
"Mr Blatter is well known worldwide as a champion against racism and discrimination. It is therefore completely unthinkable to refer to such a man as a racist", he said
"I think what Mr Blatter was saying, he mixed up those emotions and was trying to say 'look, let's get on with the game'," he added.
Blatter's statement had led to an outcry with British politicians and footballers like Rio Ferdinand and Andrew Cole urging him to resign.
But Blatter insisted that he was a committed to bringing about reform after FIFA's four executive members came under the scanner following corruption allegations
He also pointed out that the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cup was flawed and thus undermined FIFA's credibility but the ethics committee was taking measures to tackle it.(ANI)
|
|
Read More: South Goa
Comments:
